Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) was localized in nerve terminals that innervate arginine-vasopressin (AVP)-containing neurons in the rat hypothalamic supraoptic nucleus (SON). PACAP receptor (PACAPR) mRNA was expressed at high-levels in AVP-containing neurons in the SON, but at very low-levels in oxytocin-containing neurons. PACAPR-like immunoreactivity was found in SON and it was observed in the post-synaptic membranes as well as on the rough endoplasmic reticulum and cytoplasmic matrices in the magnocellular neurons. Doses of PACAP in the nanomolar range increased cytoplasmic Ca 2+ concentrations ([Ca 2+] i) in AVP-containing neurons; the increase in [Ca 2+] i was inhibited by a protein kinase A blocker. These findings suggest that PACAP serves as a transmitter and/or modulator and the activation of PACAPR stimulates a cAMP-protein kinase A pathway which in turn evokes the Ca 2+ signaling system. It is hypothesized that PACAP regulates the functions of AVP-containing neurons which participate in the control of plasma osmolarity and blood pressure.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
